Viceroy
Viceroy butterflies resemble Monarchs, but they have an extra black line cutting across the other lines on their hindwings. Viceroys tend to be slightly smaller than Monarchs, and they have a less powerful flight (although this might not be obvious unless you have both species on hand for comparison).
This Viceroy is nectaring on lavender-colored asters at Koogler Reserve in Beavercreek.
Viceroy at Cox Arboretum. Notice that the extra black line is visible on both the dorsal and ventral sides of the wings. Scientists once thought that the Viceroy mimicked the poisonous Monarch, but in fact, both species are poisonous and might be co-mimics.
Viceroys are often found near watery habitats, but they can wander a good distance to nearby fields and meadows.
Viceroys are common and widespread in our area. They fly from late May through October.
